Introduction
In a significant move to promote internal democracy and prevent conflicts of interest within Nigeria’s political landscape, the House of Representatives has advanced a bill mandating the compulsory resignation of national and state executive members of political parties who intend to contest elective government positions. This legislative proposal, sponsored by Hon. Mansur Manu Soro, aims to foster a level playing field during party primaries and general elections.
Legislative Background
The bill, designated as HB. 1381, seeks to amend relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution to require that any serving executive member of a political party at the national or state level must resign from their position before participating in any electoral contest. This measure is designed to eliminate undue advantages that current party executives might have over other aspirants, thereby ensuring fairness and equity in the electoral process.
Rationale for the Amendment
The primary objectives of the proposed amendment include:
- Promoting Internal Democracy: By ensuring that party executives do not leverage their positions to influence candidate selection processes, the bill aims to uphold democratic principles within political parties.
- Preventing Conflicts of Interest: Requiring executives to resign before contesting elections mitigates the risk of biased decision-making that could favor their candidacies.
- Enhancing Public Confidence: Transparent and fair electoral processes are crucial for maintaining public trust in democratic institutions.
Legislative Progress
The bill has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives and has been referred to the Committee on Constitution Review for further deliberation. This development is part of a broader legislative effort, with the House advancing 39 constitutional amendment bills aimed at reforming Nigeria’s judiciary and electoral systems.
Implications of the Proposed Amendment
If enacted, the amendment would have several significant implications:
- Level Playing Field: All aspirants would compete on equal footing, without undue influence from current party executives.
- Strengthened Party Structures: Political parties would be encouraged to develop clear succession plans and institutional frameworks to manage transitions effectively.
- Improved Electoral Integrity: The measure would contribute to more credible and transparent electoral outcomes, reinforcing the legitimacy of elected officials.
Conclusion
Hon. Mansur Manu Soro’s proposed constitutional amendment represents a proactive step towards enhancing the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process. By mandating the resignation of political party executives seeking elective offices, the bill seeks to eliminate potential abuses of power and promote democratic ideals within party structures. As the legislative process continues, stakeholders and citizens alike will be observing the developments closely, given the profound implications for Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
Sources
House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria. (2025, March 25). Order Paper – Tuesday, 25 March 2025. Retrieved from https://placng.org/i/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/House-of-Reps-order-paper-Tuesday-25-March-2025.pdf
